Best Fried Chicken in Houston: Top 5 Spots You Can’t Miss in 2025
If there’s one thing Houston doesn’t play about—it’s fried chicken. From long-standing local legends to under-the-radar gems, I’ve been on a mission to find the juiciest, crispiest, most flavor-packed fried chicken across the city. Whether you like yours spicy, buttery, extra crispy, or served with a side of mac, this list highlights my personal favorites that truly deliver.
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken – Midtown
This was my first time trying Gus’s, and now I get the hype. Spicy, crispy, and seriously juicy—Gus’s brings Memphis heat to Houston. I got the 8-piece plate with mac & cheese and fried okra, but the chicken was the real star. Crunchy skin, tender meat, and just the right kick.
📍 1815 Washington Ave, Houston, TX
⏰ Sun–Thu: 11 AM–9 PM | Fri–Sat: 11 AM–10 PM
La Lucha – The Heights
Are you looking for some of the best fried chicken in Houston? Then look no further than La Lucha. Nestled in the Heights, this warm and inviting spot specializes in Southern comfort food and fresh seafood. I tried the half order of fried chicken—extra crispy with a spice blend that reminded me of classic KFC, but way better. It comes with their famous biscuits, pickles, and sauces that take every bite up a notch.
*If you’re into Southern comfort food, don’t miss my Houston Brunch Guide—La Lucha makes an appearance there, too.*
📍 1801 N Shepherd Dr #A, Houston, TX 77008
⏰ Mon–Thu: 5 PM–9 PM | Fri–Sat: 5 PM–10 PM | Sun: 10:30 AM–3 PM (Brunch), 5 PM–9 PM
Loch Bar – River Oaks
Loch Bar is known for some of the best seafood in Houston, but don’t sleep on their juicy fried chicken. Served alongside creamy mac & cheese, it’s crispy, flavorful, and the perfect comfort food fix. This River Oaks gem also pairs well with their handcrafted cocktails and a killer strawberry cheesecake to finish off your meal.
📍 2414 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019
⏰ Mon–Thu: 11 AM–12 AM | Fri–Sat: 11 AM–2 AM | Sun: 11 AM–11 PM
Harold’s Shrimp & Chicken – Houston
If you’re craving Chicago-style fried chicken, Harold’s is a go-to spot. Their four-piece crispy chicken dinner with golden fries is always satisfying, especially when topped with their signature mild sauce and a sprinkle of lemon pepper seasoning that adds the perfect flavor boost.
📍 3130 Fulton St, Houston, TX 77009
⏰ Mon–Sat: 11 AM–10 PM | Sun: 11 AM–8 PM
Frenchy’s Chicken
Frenchy’s is a Houston classic known for its tender, juicy fried chicken with a perfectly seasoned, crispy crust. I love how their chicken strikes the perfect balance between crunchy and flavorful without being too greasy. It’s comfort food done right, and their homemade sides are just as memorable.
📍 4303 Airline Dr, Houston, TX 77022
⏰ Mon–Sat: 10:30 AM–10 PM | Sun: 11 AM–8 PM
Which Houston fried chicken spot will you try first? Drop your recs or reviews in the comments—I’m always hunting for the next crispy hit!